**
Recent research published in the journal *Pediatrics* reveals a troubling trend: American teenagers are experiencing unprecedented levels of sleep deprivation. The study highlights a consistent decline in sleep across all age groups, with only 22 per cent of older adolescents reporting they achieve the recommended minimum of seven hours per night. This alarming finding is based on data gathered from over 400,000 teenagers across the United States from 1991 to 2023.
In Canada, the situation mirrors that of its southern neighbour. A study conducted in January 2026 indicates that 37 per cent of Canadian youths aged 12 to 17 fail to meet the national sleep duration guidelines, which recommend eight to ten hours of sleep for teenagers aged 14 to 17.
Pressures Facing Canadian Teenagers
Andrew Holmes, a registered polysomnographic technologist and founder of Sleep Efficiency, underscores that Canadian teens face similar academic and social pressures as their American counterparts, often sacrificing sleep to meet these demands. “What many parents don’t realise is that as teens transition into adulthood, their sleep architecture and circadian rhythms shift, causing them to stay up later while still requiring eight to ten hours of sleep for optimal performance,” Holmes conveyed in a statement.
Jean-Philippe Chaput, a professor in paediatrics at the University of Ottawa and senior scientist with the Healthy Active Living and Obesity Research Group, concurs that Canadian adolescents are not getting adequate rest. “Approximately one-third of the adolescent population does not meet the recommended sleep duration, with only about 70 per cent achieving the desired eight to ten hours,” he stated.
The Role of Technology and Lifestyle
Numerous factors contribute to the dwindling sleep among teenagers today. Holmes points to demanding extracurricular commitments, heavier homework loads, and notably, the pervasive use of smartphones. Many adolescents find themselves engrossed in social media late into the night, driven by a fear of missing out (FOMO) on conversations and updates within their online social circles.
Chaput echoes this concern, noting that social media significantly contributes to delayed bedtimes. “While social media is essential for teenagers as they form their identities and maintain friendships, it inevitably pushes back their sleep schedule,” he said.
The Consequences of Sleep Deprivation
The repercussions of insufficient sleep during adolescence can extend well into adulthood. Holmes warns that the teenage years are critical for establishing long-term behavioural patterns, including sleep routines. “If chronic sleep deprivation and late-night screen usage become the norm, these habits are likely to persist later in life without intentional intervention,” he explained.
In a national survey conducted by Leger in March 2026, it was revealed that 41 per cent of Canadians are getting less than seven hours of sleep per night, with 57 per cent reporting difficulties falling asleep and 71 per cent struggling to stay asleep. Even among those who manage to achieve a minimum of seven hours, nearly 65 per cent experience sleep interruptions.
A Wake-Up Call for Society
The findings from both American and Canadian studies serve as a critical wake-up call regarding the importance of sleep. Chaput emphasises that sleep is not merely a luxury but a necessity that should be valued more highly in society. “Teenagers, in particular, are at a stage where sleep should be prioritised, yet it often takes a back seat to other responsibilities,” he stated.
The undeniable link between sleep and overall health cannot be overstated. As a society, we must recognise that fostering healthy sleep habits in teenagers is essential not only for their immediate well-being but also for their long-term health outcomes.
Why it Matters
The growing sleep crisis among teenagers is not just a personal issue; it poses a significant public health challenge. As adolescents struggle to balance academic pressures, social expectations, and the lure of technology, the implications for their physical and mental health are profound. Prioritising sleep during these formative years is crucial, as it lays the foundation for lifelong health behaviours. If we fail to address this urgent issue, we risk perpetuating a cycle of sleep deprivation that could have lasting effects on future generations. It is time to elevate the conversation around sleep and implement strategies that encourage healthier sleep patterns among our youth.
